Written By Sania Malik
Bananas help with an upset stomach by promoting mucus production in the stomach lining, which creates a barrier against acidic substances. Ripe bananas are easier to digest and may reduce gas and bloating. [1] They are also gentle enough to be eaten during stomach ailments and can restore lost electrolytes. [2]
In this article, we will explore the many ways in which bananas are good for your stomach.
Bananas and Digestion
Bananas are easily digestible due to their simple carbohydrates. That makes them a great aid to digestion. If you are suffering any stomach problems like vomiting or diarrhea, bananas are a gentle food option that can easily consumed.
Fiber in Bananas
Bananas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. [3] Fiber helps to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool. It also feeds the good bacteria in the gut, which promotes digestive health. [4]
Prebiotic in Bananas
Bananas are packed with fiber, prebiotic, and probiotic, making them beneficial for digestive issues like IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome). They contain sorbitol and activate friendly prebiotic bacteria, supporting the immune and digestive systems, and urinary and genital health. [5]
Benefits of Banana for Stomach & Other Diseases
Banana have different benefits for stomach. It also have many benefits for other diseases related to stomach. Some of these are given below;
1: Stomach Ulcers
Bananas are known to be beneficial for people with stomach ulcers. Unripe bananas are a common bland diet for peptic ulcer patients in South India, while both ripe and unripe bananas have antibacterial compounds that can inhibit H. pylori, the bacteria that cause ulcers. [6]
2: Bananas and Diarrhea
Bananas are a great food to eat if you have diarrhea. The potassium in bananas can help restore normal digestion. Bananas have resistant starch that aids in absorbing water and salt in the colon, leading to firmer stools. They are gentle on the stomach, easy to digest, and can alleviate stomach pain. [7]
3: Bananas and Constipation
Bananas can also help to relieve constipation. The fiber in bananas helps to add bulk to the stool, which can make it easier to pass. Fruits, in general, are beneficial due to their water, sorbitol, fructose, fiber, and photochemical content. [8]
4: Bananas and Heartburn
Heartburn is a common digestive problem that is caused by the acid in the stomach flowing back up into the esophagus. Eating certain foods can trigger heartburn, but bananas are not one of them. In fact, bananas can help to relieve heartburn symptoms due to their natural antacid properties. Bananas can help to neutralize the acid in the stomach and provide relief from heartburn. [9]
5: Bananas and Nausea
Nausea is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors, including motion sickness, pregnancy, and chemotherapy. Bananas are a great food to eat if you are feeling nauseous, as they are easy to digest and can help to settle the stomach. Bananas are also rich in potassium, which can help to replenish electrolytes that may be lost due to vomiting. [10]
6: Bananas and Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when the acid in the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Bananas are a low-acid fruit that can help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. [11]
7: Bananas and Gastritis
Gastritis is a condition that occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed. Bananas are a good food to eat if you have gastritis, as they are easy to digest and can help to soothe the stomach lining. Bananas contain compounds that help to stimulate the production of mucus in the stomach, which can help to protect the stomach lining from acid damage. [12]
8: Bananas and Intestinal Health
The fiber in bananas helps to feed the good bacteria in the gut, which can help to improve digestion and promote regular bowel movements. Bananas are also a good source of vitamin B6, which is important for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and appetite. [13]
9: Bananas and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. Bananas are a food to eat if you have IBD, as they are easy to digest and can help to soothe the inflamed lining of the gut. [14]
10: Bananas and Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Eating a diet that is high in fiber can help to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Bananas are a great source of fiber, with one medium-sized banana containing approximately 3 grams of fiber. Eating bananas regularly can help to promote overall colon health and reduce the risk of colon cancer. [15]
Bananas are a great food to eat if you want to improve your digestive health. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help to promote regular bowel movements, soothe the stomach lining, and reduce the risk of digestive problems.
FAQs
Does banana cause gas or bloating?
Bananas cause gas and bloating in some people due to their sorbitol and soluble fiber contents.
What is the best time to eat banana for digestion?
Eating bananas before breakfast or as part of a balanced meal help promote satiety and aid digestive health.
Can bananas cause constipation?
No, bananas are actually a great food to eat if you want to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Are bananas good for acid reflux?
Yes, bananas are a low-acid fruit that can help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux.
Can bananas help to relieve nausea?
Yes, bananas are easy to digest and can help to settle the stomach, making them a great food to eat if you are feeling nauseous.
How many bananas should I eat per day?
It is recommended to eat 1-2 bananas per day as part of a healthy and balanced diet.
Can bananas help to reduce the risk of colon cancer?
Yes, eating a diet that is high in fiber, like bananas, can help to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Can I eat banana in empty stomach?
No, do not consume bananas on an empty stomach at all.